In a world where values seem blurred and virtue is often overlooked, it's easy to get caught up in the noise and lose sight of what's truly important. But as believers, we are called to be a light in the darkness, shining with the truth of God's Word.
The Danger of Seeking Validation
The Bible warns us about the dangers of seeking validation and approval from others. In Matthew 6:1-2, Jesus says, "Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them; otherwise, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be honored by others." Seeking validation from others can lead to hypocrisy and a lack of genuine faith.
Examples of God's Standard of Excellence
1. Humility: In Proverbs 22:4, we read, "The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life." Humility is a virtue that is often overlooked in today's world, but it's a key to true greatness.
2. Integrity: Psalm 15:1-2 says, "O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill? He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, and speaks truth in his heart." Integrity is about being honest and trustworthy, even when no one is watching.
3. Accountability: In Galatians 6:1-2, we read, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ." Accountability is essential for growth and maturity.
4. Discipline: Proverbs 13:4 says, "The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the soul of the diligent is richly supplied." Discipline is key to achieving our goals and living a life of purpose.
5. Honesty: In Proverbs 12:22, we read, "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight." Honesty is essential for building trust and credibility.
6. Compassion: Matthew 9:13 says, "Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." Compassion is about showing love and kindness to those in need.
7. Self-Control: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 says, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable." Self-control is essential for living a life of purpose and discipline.
8. Perseverance: Hebrews 12:1-2 says, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clothes us so easily, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith." Perseverance is key to achieving our goals and living a life of faith.
In a world where values are blurred, we are called to stand firm in our faith and live according to God's Word. Let's focus on building principles that we can live with in private, not just display in public. Let's be proud of discipline, honesty, and growth, for these are qualities that never lose their value. As 1 Timothy 4:7-8 says, "Train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come."
